Guide to Setting Up a Company in Uganda: A Step-by-Step Process

In Uganda, there are several business structures that individuals and entities can choose from when establishing a business. The choice of business structure depends on factors such as the nature of the business, ownership structure, liability considerations, and regulatory requirements. Here are the common business structures in Uganda:

1. Sole Proprietorship:
   • A sole proprietorship is the simplest form of business structure and is owned and operated by a single individual. The owner has full control over the business and is personally liable for its debts and obligations.
2. Partnership:
   • A partnership is a business structure in which two or more individuals or entities agree to share ownership, management, and profits of the business. Partnerships can be general partnerships (where all partners have equal liability) or limited partnerships (with some partners having limited liability).
3. Private Limited Company (Ltd):
   • A private limited company is a separate legal entity from its owners (shareholders). Shareholders have limited liability, and the company’s operations are governed by a board of directors. It’s a common choice for businesses with multiple owners.
4. Public Limited Company (Plc):
   • A public limited company is similar to a private limited company but can offer shares to the public and be listed on a stock exchange. It’s subject to more extensive regulatory requirements and is typically used by larger corporations.
5. Non-Governmental Organization (NGO):
   • NGOs are typically established for charitable, nonprofit, or social purposes. They must register with the NGO Bureau and comply with specific regulations governing nonprofit organizations.
6. Cooperative (Co-op):
   • Cooperatives are formed by individuals or businesses with common interests, such as agricultural cooperatives or savings and credit cooperatives (SACCOs). Members jointly own and manage the cooperative, sharing in the profits and decision-making.
7. Branch Office:
   • Foreign companies can establish branch offices in Uganda, which are considered extensions of the parent company. Branch offices must be registered with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB).
8. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP):
   • LLPs are a relatively new form of business structure in Uganda. They combine elements of partnerships and companies, allowing for limited liability of partners while retaining the flexibility of a partnership.
9. Sole Trader Enterprise:
   • This structure is similar to a sole proprietorship and is suitable for small-scale businesses. It is relatively easy to set up and manage.
10. Microfinance Deposit-Taking Institutions (MDIs):
    • MDIs are financial institutions that accept deposits from the public and provide financial services. They are regulated by the Bank of Uganda.
11. Industrial Parks Enterprises:
    • Businesses located within designated industrial parks may have access to special incentives and benefits. Registration and compliance requirements may vary within these parks.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements and regulations for each business structure may vary in Uganda. Additionally, registration and compliance processes are subject to change, so it’s advisable to consult with legal and business professionals or relevant government agencies to ensure you meet all necessary obligations when establishing and operating your business in Uganda.

Setting up a company in Uganda involves several steps and regulatory procedures. The process may vary depending on the type of company you want to establish. Here is an overview of the general procedures for registering a company in Uganda:

1. Business Name Reservation:
   • Start by choosing a unique and suitable name for your company. The name should not already be in use or similar to existing registered companies.
   • Reserve the chosen name with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB). This can be done online or in person at the URSB office. The name reservation is valid for 30 days.
2. Company Registration:
   • After name reservation, you will need to register your company with the URSB. You can do this by filing the necessary registration forms. The required forms include Form A1 (Application and Declaration Form) and Form A2 (Particulars of Directors and Secretary).
   • You will also need to provide details of the company’s shareholders, directors, and the company’s registered office address.
3. Memorandum and Articles of Association:
   • Draft the Memorandum and Articles of Association for your company. These documents outline the company’s objectives, rules, and regulations governing its operations.
   • The URSB provides standard templates for these documents that you can customize to your company’s specific requirements.
4. Pay Registration Fees:
   • Pay the required registration fees to the URSB. The fees are based on the nominal share capital of the company.
5. Tax Identification Number (TIN):
   • Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA). This is required for tax compliance and other statutory obligations.
6. Submit Documentation to URSB:
   • Submit all the necessary documents, including the completed registration forms, Memorandum and Articles of Association, and proof of payment of registration fees, to the URSB.
7. Receive Certificate of Incorporation:
   • Once your application is approved, you will receive a Certificate of Incorporation from the URSB. This document confirms the legal existence of your company.
8. Register for Local Taxes:
   • Depending on the location and nature of your business, you may need to register for local taxes with the relevant municipal or district authorities.
9. Employment Compliance:
   • If you plan to hire employees, ensure compliance with labor laws, including registering with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and providing workers’ compensation coverage.
10. Business Permits and Licenses:
    • Depending on your industry and location, you may need to obtain additional business permits or licenses from relevant regulatory authorities.
11. Bank Account:
    • Open a business bank account in the company’s name to facilitate financial transactions.
12. Annual Compliance:
    • Comply with annual filing requirements, including filing annual returns and financial statements with the URSB and ensuring tax compliance with the URA.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements and procedures for setting up a company in Uganda may change over time, and they can vary depending on the type of company and its activities. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult with legal and business professionals or visit the official URSB and URA websites for the most up-to-date information and guidance on company registration and compliance in Uganda.

Uganda has a tax system that includes various taxes imposed at different levels of government, including central government, local government, and local authorities. The key taxes in Uganda are as follows:

1. Income Tax:
   • Personal Income Tax: Individuals in Uganda are subject to a progressive tax rate on their income. The tax rates vary depending on income levels, with higher incomes taxed at higher rates.
   • Corporate Income Tax: Companies in Uganda are subject to corporate income tax on their taxable income. The standard corporate tax rate is 30%. However, some sectors, such as manufacturing and agribusiness, may be eligible for reduced rates.
2. Value Added Tax (VAT):
   • VAT is a consumption tax imposed on the supply of goods and services in Uganda. The standard VAT rate is 18%. Some goods and services may be exempt or subject to a zero-rate.
3. Capital Gains Tax (CGT):
   • CGT is levied on the profit made from the disposal of certain assets, including real estate, investments, and businesses. The rate for individuals is 30%, while companies are taxed at the standard corporate tax rate.
4. Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE):
   • PAYE is a tax deducted at source from the salaries and wages of employees. Employers are responsible for withholding and remitting PAYE to the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).
5. Local Service Tax:
   • Some local authorities impose a local service tax on specific services provided within their jurisdiction.
6. Excise Duties:
   • Excise duties are imposed on specific goods, such as alcohol, tobacco, and petroleum products.
7. Customs Duties:
   • Customs duties are levied on imported goods in accordance with the East African Community (EAC) Common External Tariff.
8. Withholding Tax:
   • Withholding tax is deducted at source on certain payments made to non-resident individuals or entities. The rates vary depending on the type of payment.
9. Local Taxes and Levies:
   • Local governments and authorities may impose various taxes, fees, and levies, including property taxes, trading licenses, and market dues.
10. Stamp Duty:
    • Stamp duty is applied to various legal and financial transactions, including property transfers, share transfers, and certain contracts.
11. Environmental Levy:
    • An environmental levy is imposed on certain products and activities that have an environmental impact.
12. Skills Development Levy (SDL):
    • Employers are required to contribute to the SDL fund to promote skills development among employees. The current rate is 1% of the total payroll.
13. National Social Security Fund (NSSF):
    • Employers and employees contribute to the NSSF to provide retirement benefits and social security coverage.
14. Local Government Taxes and Levies:
    • Local governments and authorities may impose various taxes, fees, and levies, such as property taxes and trading licenses.

It’s important to note that tax laws and rates can change over time, so it’s essential to stay informed about the latest tax regulations and consult with tax professionals or the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) for up-to-date information and guidance on tax matters. Additionally, Uganda has tax treaties with several countries to prevent double taxation of income, which may affect certain taxpayers’ obligations.